Wood - Elf
Children of the Forest; Greenkin; Sylvan Protectors
Basic Information
Anatomy
Wood Elves are tall, graceful humanoids with an athletic and agile physique, perfectly suited for life in the forest. Their skin has a copperish hue, often accented with faint green undertones that serve as natural camouflage. Their hair is typically shades of brown or black, though some rare individuals are born with golden or copper-colored locks. Eyes are often shades of green, brown, or hazel, giving them an earthy, grounded appearance. Wood Elves have long, pointed ears and delicate facial features, yet their bodies are surprisingly strong, built for survival in the wild.
Genetics and Reproduction
Wood Elves reproduce similarly to humans but with a longer gestational period, reflective of their lifespan. Their genetics are influenced by a deep connection to nature and primal magic, leading to traits such as longevity, enhanced dexterity, and innate magical abilities. Elven children are raised communally, learning the ways of the forest from a young age. This upbringing instills in them a strong sense of duty to protect the wilderness and a love of exploration and discovery.
Ecology and Habitats
Wood Elves are intimately tied to their environment, thriving in dense, ancient forests like Cyankadi. They live in harmony with nature, building homes in the trees and weaving their settlements into the natural landscape rather than altering it. The Genesis Tree in Cyankadi Forest serves as a spiritual and literal heart of their society, and Wood Elves are deeply protective of the forests, serving as guardians against any who would harm the land. Their magic is often druidic or ranger-like, used to nurture and shield the forest’s flora and fauna.
Behaviour
Wood Elves are driven by a sense of freedom and a deep respect for the natural world. They value harmony and are often peaceful but can be fierce warriors when the forest is threatened. They live with a childlike curiosity but are known for their wisdom and calm demeanor. Their behavior is deeply rooted in a balance between playfulness and responsibility. Community and kinship are central to their way of life, and they rarely act out of pure self-interest. Their appreciation for beauty extends to art, poetry, and song, all of which celebrate their bond with nature.
Additional Information
Average Intelligence
Above average, with a focus on wisdom and understanding of natural and arcane forces.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Wood Elves possess heightened senses. Their eyesight is particularly sharp, allowing them to see well in both daylight and low-light conditions, a trait that enables them to move with confidence through shadowed forests. Their hearing is finely tuned to the natural sounds of the wilderness, and they have a keen awareness of their surroundings, allowing them to detect threats with ease. Their connection to the natural world also grants them an intuitive sense of the magical energy that flows through the land.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Wood Elves have names that echo the natural world, inspired by the forest, celestial bodies, or elements.
Male Names: Thalos, Elarion, Ruvain
Female Names: Thalia, Elowen, Sylvara
Surnames: Leafwhisper, Moondancer, Greenheart
Names are typically chosen during a coming-of-age ceremony and often reflect an individual’s traits or spiritual connection to nature.
Beauty Ideals
Beauty among Wood Elves is defined by an ethereal grace and a natural appearance. They admire flowing hair that resembles leaves or vines and eyes that reflect the hues of the forest. Symmetry and a healthy, vibrant aura are considered beautiful, as is the ability to move with the silent grace of a deer.
Gender Ideals
Wood Elf society is egalitarian. Both genders are seen as equally important, whether in roles of leadership, as warriors, or in nurturing the forest. Women and men alike can be rangers, druids, or sages. Strength is not measured by physical prowess alone but by wisdom, compassion, and a spiritual bond with the land.
Courtship Ideals
Courtship among Wood Elves is a delicate dance of nature-inspired rituals. Gifts of hand-carved wooden trinkets, enchanted flowers, or songs played on natural instruments are common. A potential partner might be tested in acts of bravery or skill, such as hunting a rare animal or performing a feat of magic.
Relationship Ideals
Wood Elves form deep, enduring relationships. Marriage is not just a union of two people but a bond recognized by the forest. Ceremonies often take place under the Genesis Tree or in sacred glades. Elves remain faithful to their partners for life, though unions are more spiritual and natural rather than legalistic.
Common Etiquette Rules
Respect Nature: Cutting down trees or harming wildlife is a grave offense.
Greeting Rituals: Bowing with hands over the heart is a common greeting, and offerings to the spirits of the land are made before entering sacred areas.
Polite Silence: Silence is valued in nature, so Wood Elves speak quietly and avoid unnecessary noise.
Common Dress Code
Wood Elves wear clothing made from woven plant fibers, leathers, and enchanted leaves. These garments are practical, allowing free movement and blending with the forest. Jewelry is often carved from wood or crafted from vines and adorned with precious stones imbued with nature’s magic.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Wood Elves are deeply connected to their past, celebrating their survival and respect for nature through songs, storytelling, and dance. Festivals align with the seasons, honoring the cycles of growth, decay, and rebirth. The most important festival is the Blessing of the Genesis Tree, a ritual to renew their connection to the land.
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
Trance Dancing: A communal meditation performed under moonlight, where Elves dance to connect with their ancestors.
Archery Competitions: Archery is both a practical skill and an art form, with contests held regularly.
Rites of Spring: A celebration of life and fertility, marked by planting new trees and thanking the spirits of nature.
Common Taboos
Destruction of Nature: Needless destruction of flora or fauna is seen as sacrilegious.
Dishonesty: Lying disrupts the natural order and is heavily frowned upon.
Arcane Pollution: Using corrupt or necromantic magic within the forest is strictly forbidden.
History
The Wood Elves’ history is one of adaptation and resilience. Originally residing in the lush Sea of Trees surrounding Lin'Selvéar, the Pandora War forced them to abandon their ancestral home. With the decimation of Aspor Forest, they migrated to Cyankadi Forest, where they harnessed primal magic to rebuild and thrive. Cyankadi became a sanctuary for their people, a place of renewal and spiritual strength centered around the Genesis Tree. Despite past tragedies, Wood Elves remain steadfast in their role as protectors of nature and wielders of ancient magics.
Common Myths and Legends
The Spirit of the Genesis Tree: A benevolent being believed to guard the heart of Cyankadi and grant wisdom to those who seek it.
The Great Hunt: A legend of an ancient Wood Elf ranger who tamed a spirit wolf to save the forest from corruption.
The Starweaver: A mythical elf who wove the constellations into the sky, ensuring the stars would guide her people through darkness.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
Sylvanae Astriwoodensis
Lifespan
600-750 years, although some have been known to live even longer if they are spiritually or magically bound to their forests.
Average Height
5'5" - 6'5"
Average Weight
100 to 150 pounds
Average Physique
Lean and muscular, with a body honed for agility and endurance.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Skin is coppery with greenish hues. Tattoos or body paint depicting natural patterns are common, especially among warriors and rangers.
Comments